1981 Vauxhall Chevette vs. 2011 Suzuki SX4
To start off, 2011 Suzuki SX4 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Chevette would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Suzuki SX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Suzuki SX4 (150 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (56 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Suzuki SX4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Suzuki SX4 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Vauxhall Chevette is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Suzuki SX4, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Suzuki SX4 (190 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (89 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Suzuki SX4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Vauxhall Chevette | 2011 Suzuki SX4 | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Suzuki |
| Model | Chevette | SX4 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1256 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4491 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1544 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2499 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
